Otoplasty Ear Surgery

Certain children have long been victims of name calling and incessant teasing in classrooms and playground. Names like 'Dumbo' and 'big ears' are not uncommon, and can be extremely traumatizing for a growing child. Even for adults, the problem of deformed or protruding ears can be embarrassing when dealing with friends and business associates. An ear defect isn't something that you need to live with for the rest of your life. Cosmetic plastic surgeons have already perfected otoplasty ear surgery to correct deformed and protruding ears.

Otoplasty ear surgery is the medical science of reshaping outer ear defects of size and shape. These defects are known to be the result of the cartilage in the upper ear that is the basis of the ear's structure. Some defects actually involve the lack of cartilage, but these can also be corrected as well.

There were some 26,000 otoplasty procedures completed in 2003 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The majority of these surgeries were done in a surgeon's office as an outpatient procedure under local anesthetic. The average length of each operation was 2 to 3 hours.

An otoplasty surgery involves an incision behind the ear. This incision reveals the cartilage beneath the skin or provides a place to put in structural support for an ear that is floppy. Sutures are usually used to pull back the ear and pin them into a position closer to the head. Sometimes all it takes is the removal and reshaping of cartilage that's already there. Once the reshaping is complete, the incision is closed and the patient is allowed to get up and walk around.

For the first few days, a large compress must be worn around the head. This provides support for the reshaped ear as it heals. After that, a lighter head dressing can be used for the next couple of weeks. Most patients can return to school or work within a week, but the ear won't be fully healed until a month or so. That's why patients are advised not to engage in any serious physical activity that could damage the ear.

There aren't many complications that can arise after the surgery. The most common one is a blood clot that can be removed with a needle. They'll disappear with time, however, if the patient is willing to wait. Some ears are known to spring back and protrude again, but they can be fixed with additional surgery.

Otoplasty ear surgery is a safe and popular procedure for people with outer ear defects. Most patients are extremely satisfied with the results and can go on to live a life full of confidence and meaning. Talk to a plastic surgeon today to explore your options and start the rest of your life with a constructive choice!